Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Foods That Trigger Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common disorder that causes discomfort in the belly, uneasiness and trouble with bowel movements. Irritable bowel syndrome mainly concerns your large intestine. The primary causes of this syndrome are lack of fiber in the diet, sensitive nerves in your gut, stress or may be it is genetic. It is not a serious condition and can be treated with some lifestyle changes, eating habits and avoiding stress. It does not make you prone to other colon conditions, such as ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer, Crohn's disease or colon cancer. But this syndrome can be a long lasting problem that may change the way you live your life. Some common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are constipation, irregular bowel movement, diarrhea, gastric problem or bloating, belly cramps and excessive belly fat. 

Also read: Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Causes, Symptoms And Risk Factors

1. Gluten:

Gluten is a protein which is found in wheat, barley and rye. In case you have IBS you should avoid foods that contain gluten so that your IBS symptoms improve. Foods that contain gluten include most cereal, grains, and pasta, and many packaged and processed foods. 

Also read: Intake Of Proteins May Help Treat Bowel Disease

2. Dairy products:

Dairy products are problematic for two reasons. First, it contains fat, which can lead to diarrhea. You should switch to low-fat or non-fat dairy products to lessen the symptoms. The second reason is, many people with IBS are lactose intolerant. If you are lactose intolerant and have IBS, you should include other dairy alternatives like rice milk, oat milk and soy cheese. 

3. Insoluble fiber:

Fiber comprises most of your diet. Whole grains, vegetables and fruits contain fiber. Although fiber is an important part of your diet. But fiber tolerance is different for different people, insoluble fiber may cause or worsen diarrhea in some people along with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Therefore, people who face problem with bowel movements should focus on soluble fiber instead. Always keep in mind that insoluble fiber may relieve constipation, but it can also make you feel bloated.

4. Caffeine:

Caffeine can increase diarrhea, which is another major symptom of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. High sources of caffeine include coffee, tea, cola drinks, packaged drinks and chocolate.

5. Processed foods:

Processed foods are super convenient but are harmful for your health. People with IBS should avoid these foods. Processed foods are loaded with additives or preservatives that might trigger irritable bowel syndrome. A large number of processed foods, like potato chips, hot dogs, sausages or frozen meals, are fried and high in fat. Therefore, it is possible that you start making meals for yourself or buy foods that are fresh.

Foods to eat when you have irritable bowel syndrome:

• Whole grains
• Lactose-free milk
• Kiwi
• Watermelon
• Carrots
• Turnips
• Berries
• Eggplant
• Lettuce
• Chicken
• Tofu
• Beef
• Lettuce

Also read: Bowel Cancer: Symptoms, Causes And Risk Factors

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.